Imagine you’ve just landed in Malaysia. The tropical air surrounds you, and you’re excited to explore all the magical places – from the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur to the serene beaches of Langkawi. You want to quickly check your route on the map, book a ride, or share your first impressions with friends. But… you’re not connected to the internet. Waiting in line for a SIM card isn’t exactly how you want to start your adventure. With a Malaysia eSIM, however, you can have everything sorted before you even leave home.
Data eSIM for Malaysia: How to Choose the Best One?
Choosing the right eSIM depends on the length of your trip and the amount of data you need. If you’re visiting Malaysia for a short time, it’s best to opt for a package with a smaller data volume and shorter validity, usually the most affordable option. For longer trips or those who require more data, there are packages valid for up to 30 days. We also have tips for those who plan to venture into neighboring countries and don’t want to install a new SIM card every time.
The Best Value Data for Malaysia eSIM
In Malaysia, you have several mobile operators to choose from, including CelcomDigi (formed from the merger of two operators), Hotlink (also known as Maxis), and UMobile. You’ll also find SIM cards from various virtual operators. The most popular is TuneTalk, which uses Celcom’s network.
In terms of coverage, Celcom is the best choice, especially in Borneo. Fortunately, many eSIM providers use this network. You can’t go wrong with eSIM4Travel, Yesim, or most packages from MobiMatter. You can always check the eSIM description to confirm.
Cheapest Packages
If you’re looking for an eSIM for a short stopover or layover, check out eSIM4Travel or GlobalYO, both offering a 1GB eSIM for the same price of $1.99. This eSIM is valid for up to 7 days.
Also worth mentioning is the eSIM from MobiMatter, which costs $3.99 but lasts for two weeks and even works in neighboring countries – Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand.
Average Data Usage (5 GB)
For 5 GB eSIMs, eSIM4Travel and GlobalYO shine with prices under $6. These have a 30-day validity, making them perfect as backups for a multi-week vacation.
We also have to mention MobiMatter. Their “Vietnam Plus” eSIM costs $6.99 and lets you travel across much of Southeast Asia, connecting you in Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
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High Data Usage (10 GB)
For 10 GB eSIMs, we highly recommend the eSIM from MobiMatter. You can get a Malaysia-only eSIM for $6.99, though it only offers 4G connectivity. Alternatively, you can upgrade to the “Vietnam Plus” package for $11.99, which offers 5G and covers neighboring countries.
Another solid choice is Airhub, where you can get 12 GB for only $9.41, though it’s limited to 4G speeds.
eSIMs from eSIM4Travel or GlobalYO are also great options, priced around $10 for 10 GB.
Malaysia eSIM – Unlimited Data
If you want unlimited data, check out GlobalYO. You can choose between 7, 15, or 30 days of validity, with the most expensive package at $37.99. This eSIM allows hotspot use, but keep in mind that after using 1 GB daily, speeds drop to 512 kb/s. This is sufficient for browsing and social media but may not support work-related needs.
Alternatively, Yesim offers a 30-day eSIM for €54 (with 7- and 15-day options available). It supports hotspot use and won’t slow down after 1 GB per day. This package also includes a VPN option.
Finally, consider the “Asia Top 4 Countries” eSIM from MobiMatter, which isn’t unlimited but offers 50 GB over 90 days and covers Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand for $59.99.
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Overview of the Best Malaysia eSIM Packages
| Provider | GB | Price | Validity |
| eSIM4Travel | 1 GB | $1.99 | 7 days |
| eSIM4Travel | 5 GB | $5.86 | 30 days |
| MobiMatter | 10 GB | $6.99 | 30 days |
| GlobalYO | Unlimited | $19.99 | 15 days |
Traditional SIM Card in Malaysia
As mentioned, you have three main operators to choose from, with Celcom (merged with Digi) being the best option, especially for coverage. TuneTalk, which uses the Celcom network, is also a good choice.
However, coverage isn’t the only thing you should consider. Different SIM cards may offer different internet speeds, even if they belong to the same operator. It depends on the chosen package and price. Generally, you’ll find speeds between 6 and 12 Mbps, and some packages may vary in speed between day and night. This information will always be listed with the offer.
Where to Buy a SIM Card in Malaysia
You can easily buy SIM cards from all mentioned operators right at the airport, where special tourist packages are sold. These SIM cards are slightly more expensive than in the city, but buying at the airport is much more convenient – the staff often helps with installation and activation.
If you want to save money, you can buy a SIM card in local stores like 7Eleven, 99 Speedmart, or KK Mart. The selection is vast, and prices can be half of what you’d pay at the airport. However, the activation process can be complex, often requiring verification through the WeChat app, where you upload your passport and a selfie. In our case, the staff handled it, but this isn’t always the case.
You’ll always need your passport to buy a SIM card, as it will be scanned and linked to the card.
SIM Card Prices in Malaysia
How much do SIM cards cost at the airport?
- 15-20 GB for 7 days – around 25 MYR (about 135 CZK)
- 30 GB for 30 days – 35-50 MYR (190-270 CZK)
- Unlimited data for 30 days – 50-65 MYR (270-350 CZK)
If you use data for work on a laptop, make sure the package you choose allows hotspot use, as this option may be limited or unavailable in some packages.
Summary of Malaysia eSIM Options
You might be thinking that SIM cards in Malaysia are super cheap, so why bother with an eSIM? There are situations where buying an eSIM makes sense.
If you’re only here for a short time, need minimal data, and don’t want to waste time in line for a SIM card and its installation. Or if you’re staying longer but don’t need dozens of GB or unlimited data. A 10 GB eSIM costs about the same as a 30 GB SIM card at the airport, but it saves you time and hassle. Lastly, if you plan to visit neighboring countries and don’t want to buy a local SIM card in each one, choose a package from MobiMatter and cover your entire vacation.
And if you’re also heading to Thailand or Indonesia, check out our previous articles.
